Brandon Burlsworth story embodies the ultimate tale of perseverance in college football. Starting as a determined walk-on at the University of Arkansas, he transformed himself through relentless dedication into an All-American offensive lineman.
Brandon Burlsworth journey from Harrison, Arkansas to becoming an Indianapolis Colts draft selection in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft inspired countless athletes. Tragically, a fatal accident on April 28, 1999, cut his promising NFL career short. His legacy lives on through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, the Burlsworth Trophy, and his enduring message of hard work and faith. His remarkable story of commitment continues to influence football players nationwide.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brandon Vaughn Burlsworth |
| Birth Date | September 20, 1976 |
| Death Date | April 28, 1999 (age 22) |
| Birthplace | Harrison, Arkansas |
| Height | 6’4″ (1.93 m) |
| Weight | 308 lbs (140 kg) |
| College | University of Arkansas (1994-1998) |
| NFL Team | Indianapolis Colts (1999) |
| Draft Position | Round 3, Pick 63 (1999 NFL Draft) |
| Jersey Number | #66 |
| Position | Offensive lineman |
| Education | – Bachelor’s in Marketing Management – Master’s in Business Administration |
| Academic Achievement | 3.96 GPA |
| Major Athletic Honors | – All-American (1998) – First-team All-SEC (1997, 1998) – SEC Academic Honor Roll |
| Family Members | – Mother: Barbara Burlsworth – Father: Leo Burlsworth – Brother: Marty Burlsworth |
| Legacy Organizations | – Brandon Burlsworth Foundation – Burlsworth Trophy |
| Notable Recognition | – Jersey #66 retired by Arkansas – Featured in film “Greater” (2016) |
| Career Path | – Walk-on player (1994) – Earned scholarship (1995) – Starter (1996-1998) – NFL Draft pick (1999) |
| Known For | – Iconic thick black-framed glasses – Exceptional work ethic – Academic excellence – Faith and character |
| Cause of Death | Car accident on U.S. 412 near Alpena, Arkansas |
| Last Game Played | 1998 Florida Citrus Bowl |
| Career Statistics | – 34 consecutive starts – Zero sacks allowed (senior year) – First All-American from Arkansas in decade |
Brandon Burlsworth Early Life
Growing up in Harrison, Arkansas, Brandon’s childhood was marked by humble beginnings. He lived with his mother Barbara Burlsworth, who worked multiple jobs to support the family. From an early age, Brandon showed extraordinary discipline, waking up early to exercise and maintaining excellent grades while pursuing his football dreams. His work ethic was evident even in elementary school, where teachers noted his exceptional focus and determination to excel in everything he attempted.
Brandon Burlsworth Education
Brandon’s academic achievements were as impressive as his athletic accomplishments. At Harrison High School, he maintained a 4.0 GPA while participating in football. At the University of Arkansas, he earned both his bachelor’s degree in marketing management with a 3.96 GPA and completed his MBA before his final college game. He became the first Razorback in history to complete a master’s degree before playing his last game, setting a new standard for student-athletes.
Brandon Burlsworth Age
Brandon was only 22 years old at the time of his tragic accident. Born September 20, 1976, and passing away on April 28, 1999, his life though brief, left an indelible mark on the world of football and beyond. His youth makes his achievements even more remarkable, having accomplished so much in such a short time.
Brandon Burlsworth Family Background and Siblings
The Burlsworth family consisted of Brandon, his mother Barbara, father Leo Burlsworth, and his older brother Marty Burlsworth. His mother Barbara worked tirelessly as a single parent after separating from Leo. Marty, who was 16 years older than Brandon, served as a father figure and mentor throughout Brandon’s life. The family’s strong Christian faith played a crucial role in shaping Brandon’s character and work ethic.
Brandon Burlsworth Physical Appearance
Standing 6’4″ and weighing 308 pounds during his professional career, Brandon was known for his distinctive thick black-framed glasses, which became his trademark. He transformed his body through rigorous training from a somewhat awkward frame in high school to an NFL-caliber physique. His glasses, which he refused to replace with contacts, became a symbol of his authenticity and dedication to staying true to himself.
Brandon Burlsworth Before Fame
Before becoming an All-American offensive lineman, Brandon was often overlooked by college recruiters. At Harrison High School, he played football but wasn’t considered a standout prospect. He received no Division I scholarship offers, leading him to walk on at Arkansas. His pre-fame years were marked by intense dedication to improvement, often training alone and following a strict routine of workout and study.
Brandon Burlsworth Career Journey
Brandon’s career trajectory was remarkable:
- Walk-on at Arkansas in 1994
- Earned scholarship after first year
- Became starter in sophomore year
- Named All-SEC in junior and senior years
- Selected as an All-American in 1998
- Drafted by Indianapolis Colts in 1999
Public Attention
Brandon’s story gained significant public attention after his death, particularly through:
- The establishment of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation
- Creation of the Burlsworth Trophy for outstanding walk-on players
- Release of the film “Greater” in 2016
- Multiple books and documentaries about his life
- Annual football camps and charity events in his name
Brandon Burlsworth Net Worth
At the time of his death, Brandon had just signed his rookie contract with the Indianapolis Colts. While the exact terms weren’t publicly disclosed, third-round picks in 1999 typically received contracts worth between $1-2 million. His legacy continues to generate value through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, which has helped thousands of underprivileged children.
Hobbies and Favorite Things
Brandon was known for:
- Daily Bible study and prayer
- Weight training and fitness
- Studying game film
- Spending time with family
- Playing piano
- Reading motivational books
Fun Facts
- Never missed a practice in his entire football career
- Ate the same breakfast every morning: two eggs, toast, and banana
- Wore the same style glasses since childhood
- Number 66 was retired by both Harrison High School and Arkansas
- First Arkansas player to earn a master’s degree before playing final game
Conclusion
The tragic car accident that claimed Brandon Burlsworth’s life stands as a poignant reminder of how quickly destinies can change. His journey from walk-on to NFL draft pick with the Indianapolis Colts exemplifies the power of perseverance and dedication. Though his life was cut devastatingly short on that fateful day near Alpena, Arkansas, his legacy transcends the football field. Through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, his story continues to inspire generations of athletes. His transformation from an underdog to an All-American proves that with unwavering determination, any dream is achievable.
FAQs
- What caused Brandon Burlsworth death?
Brandon died in a car accident on April 28, 1999, while driving from Fayetteville to Harrison, Arkansas. - What is the Burlsworth Trophy?
The Burlsworth Trophy is awarded annually to the most outstanding Division I FBS college football player who began their career as a walk-on. - When was Brandon drafted by the Indianapolis Colts?
Brandon was selected in the third round (63rd overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft. - What was Brandon’s college GPA?
He maintained a 3.96 GPA while earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Arkansas. - What is the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation?
Established in his memory, the foundation provides opportunities for underprivileged children and other charitable causes.
